Mayor Beng Climaco on Saturday called on all Zamboangueños affected by the ongoing crisis to remain united and strong.

Climaco urged Zamboanga residents to “rise up the climate of fear and doubt,” saying the crisis will make them better people and result to a “more peaceful” Zamboanga.

“In this time of crisis, I call on our people to remain united and strong. Our faith as a people is unshakeable,” she said in a press conference.

Climaco believes the standoff between a faction of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and government troops is not an issue of religion but of principles.

“This is not an issue of religion for we have co-existed peacefully and worked harmoniously. This is an issue of people with misguided principles, using arms to propel their ideology for propaganda. This conflict has shown how galvanized and united we are as a city,” she said.

“We do not want these MNLF gunmen making Zamboanga City part of their propaganda mechanism,” she added.

The mayor described the situation in the city as “heartbreaking and upsetting,” and has affected the lives of the residents.

Seven barangays remain isolated and classes are still suspended. Operations of the Zamboanga airport have also been suspended.

Climaco reminded Zamboangueños that the local government will continue to address their needs amid the ongoing conflict.

“Right from the start, we have shown decisive leadership. We have not stopped listening to your concerns and we have not succumbed to complacency,” she said.

Climaco also expressed sympathy to the hostages, soldiers, and policemen, as well to their families affected by the fighting.